Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke has introduced the Greater Yellowstone Recreation Enhancement and Tourism Act, a bill that would add nearly 100 miles of the Madison and Gallatin Rivers and select tributaries to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
The proposal covers about 42 miles of the Madison River, 39.5 miles of the Gallatin River, as well as segments of Hyalite Creek, Cabin Creek, and the Middle Fork of Cabin Creek. The designated stretches span from key headwaters to downstream points near public lands.
Bipartisan support for these river designations was reflected in unanimous resolutions passed by both Madison and Gallatin County Commissions.
“Striking the right balance between conservation and multiple use of our resources is the Montana way. These rivers support everything from family farms to fly shops, ranchers to rafters, and literally power our community,” said Rep. Zinke. “Madison and Gallatin Counties both rely on these waters for irrigation and energy, but also for the outdoor recreation economy that fuels small businesses and draws visitors from around the world. This bill strikes the right balance between preserving what we treasure, maintaining access for recreation, and ensuring continued operation of the existing dams on the river.”
The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System was established by Congress in 1968 to protect rivers with significant natural, cultural, or recreational value in a free-flowing state for future generations. This legislation amends current law to permanently safeguard parts of these rivers while maintaining public access, allowing emergency response activities, preserving water rights, ensuring dam operations continue unchanged, and respecting private property rights—no land will be acquired without owner consent.
Rep. Zinke collaborated with local officials including county commissioners as well as conservation groups, outfitters, landowners, and Northwestern Energy during development of this bill.
Tom Kiernan of American Rivers Action Fund commented: “Our lives are deeply connected with our nation’s rivers and the ecosystems they support. By protecting rivers, we safeguard clean water sources, preserve recreational opportunities and support access to our public lands. Each mile added to the Wild and Scenic River system is an investment in our shared future and this bill is a major downpayment. We appreciate Representative Zinke’s leadership on this bill and encourage its swift passage.”
Ryan Chapin from Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership stated: “From fishing for world-class trout and rafting through rapids to hunting river bottom whitetails and migrating ducks and geese, the Madison and Gallatin Rivers are a hunter’s and angler’s dream… Ranchers, farmers, and local businesses depend on the health of these watersheds to thrive… we join Montanans from all walks of life in thanking Representative Zinke for introducing this meaningful legislation.”
Charles Drimal at Greater Yellowstone Coalition added: “Rivers are the lifeblood of this region… This bill is community-driven… that will safeguard Montana’s world class fish and wildlife populations… ensure local economies prosper long into the future.”
Kristin Gardner with Gallatin River Task Force said: “With introduction of this Wild & Scenic Rivers bill… two cherished rivers—are now on a path toward lasting protection… We applaud Representative Ryan Zinke for his strong leadership in protecting Montana’s public lands & waters.”
Kevin Colburn at American Whitewater remarked: “Montana’s rivers are a big reason people live… Making sure some stay awesome for future generations is common sense & smart policy for jobs & our economy…. Boaters & other river enthusiasts are thrilled that Congressman Zinke is looking out for Montana…”
Both county commissions submitted letters strongly supporting federal action:
“On behalf of Madison County Commission…we strongly support federal legislation…These rivers support more than just landscapes…They provide clean water essential for homes…enhance outdoor recreation industry; sustain fish/wildlife populations…” wrote Commissioners Duke Gilman, Ronald Nye & William Todd.
Gallatin County Commissioners Scott MacFarlane, Zach Brown & Jennifer Boyer wrote: “Healthy rivers are lifeblood…provide clean water…support world-class outdoor recreation; sustain fish/wildlife; fuel key sectors…This effort enjoys broad bipartisan support across Montana—from farmers/ranchers/business owners/conservationists/sportsmen/local governments—reflecting shared understanding safeguarding our rivers is not partisan…but a Montana value.”
Ryan Zinke currently serves as U.S. Representative for Montana’s 1st district after replacing Steve Daines in 2023 (https://www.congress.gov/member/ryan-zinke/Z000018). He previously served in the state senate from 2009–2013 (https://leg.mt.gov/legislator-information/roster/individual/1986). Born in Bozeman in 1961 (https://bioguide.congress.gov/search/bio/Z000018), he resides in Whitefish.
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